For me, leaving my family and friends behind when I moved to school was difficult. It hurt me to not be in-the-loop. I hated being glued to my phone in an attempt to stay in contact with everyone all at once. But even worse than that, was the pain I felt leaving my loving doggy behind. My dog, Jax, means the world to me. He is my best friend, my co-pilot for long drives, and my partner in crime. But he doesn't have thumbs, and he can't quite figure out how to FaceTime me (yet!). So, while I love and miss my friends and family, I have to write a little something special for my four-legged best friend.

Dear Jaxon (Jax, for short),

Leaving you was one of the hardest things I have had to do in my nineteen years of existence. You are a constant in my ever-changing life, and I don't know what I would do without you. Unlike other friends and family members, you are not needy. You do not get mad over petty boyfriends, or keep hurtful people in your life. You are easy. So first of all, I would like to thank you. Thank you for all the hour-long talks. Thank you for eating any brand of dog food I pick up at the store. Thanks for always coming back to me when I call you. Thank you for eating the evidence when I accidentally drop food on the ground. Thanks for not spilling any of my secrets (because I know you wouldn't, even if you could).

Jax, I have known you since the day after you were born. I held you and fell in love with you. You helped to teach me responsibility. You taught me about caring for another being, even if you are an animal. I remember bringing you home and introducing you to my family. You have helped me through every obstacle that life threw at me. I don't know if I could have done it without you.

Sometimes, you are all that I think about after a long day of classes. I wish we could cuddle on my bed and watch Grey's Anatomy together. I miss playing fetch with you, and I miss seeing your little face pop up in the window every time my car pulls into the driveway. I would give anything to have you here at school with me. (But sadly, Albright doesn't allow dogs. And you're way too big to sneak in!) I miss the way you budge up under my blanket just to be close to me. You are my guard dog, my secret keeper, and my best friend.

Every time a break is near, or I am going home for the weekend, I count down the days until I can see you. My heart pounds in my chest when I pull into the driveway, and I have to stop myself from tearing up when we are finally reunited. You fit perfectly in my arms. You are funny, quirky, and adorable. You are silly, sweet, and my safe-haven. Never forget the love that I have for you, okay? If I were there, I would always give you an extra treat, and extra, extra snuggles.

Thank you for not only being man's best friend, but a part of my family.

I can't wait to spend all summer with you! Sending virtual hugs, kisses, squeaky toys, and dog treats,

-Your Lonely Owner

P.S. - your puppy dog eyes almost made me think twice about leaving you, but I think I might have grown immune to them. ;) maybe we can re-visit this whole 'hiding you in my dorm room' idea!